Live Tabla Performances and Hindustani Classical Accompaniment
A collection of my recent stages and musical moments, from solo recitals to collaborative baithaks, reflecting my journey in the Punjab Gharana tradition.
This is my sanctuary. A moment of complete focus on stage, where the rhythm takes over and everything else fades away. This is the essence of a live tabla performance.
A close up view of my hands during riyaz, or daily practice. This is a short clip of me working on a complex composition in Rupak taal, a rhythmic cycle of 7 beats. The endless hours of practice are where the real music is made.
The joy of a musical conversation. Here I am sharing the stage with santoor artist Shantanu Gokhale, lost in the flow of the performance. A great sangat is about listening and responding to create something beautiful together.
A wide view from a Gurupurnima celebration performance. Seeing an audience, young and old, sitting together and absorbed in the music is an incredibly humbling and motivating experience.
A blessing from my Guruji, Pt. Yogesh Samsi ji, after a performance. This moment is more valuable than any applause. His guidance is the foundation of my musical journey.
The unique atmosphere of an intimate home concert, or 'baithak'. I am accompanying santoor player Ninad Daithankar here. In these settings, the connection between the artists and the listeners is immediate and powerful.
A clip from my solo performance at the prestigious Saptak music competition in Ahmedabad. I am presenting a traditional composition from the Benaras gharana, accompanied by Yashwant Thitte on the harmonium.
A magical outdoor concert under the moon. The setting of a performance adds so much to the mood of the music. This was a beautiful evening of Hindustani classical music.
About Featured
For my solo recitals, I focus on the Punjab Gharana tradition, balancing complex rhythmic compositions with oral recitation. When collaborating, I prioritize precise sound balancing to ensure the rhythm supports rather than overpowers the main artist, whether it is a santoor, flute, or vocal performance.
My approach to the tabla is rooted in the Guru-shishya parampara, learning the intricacies of the Punjab Gharana style from my Guruji, Pt. Yogesh Samsi. This foundational training informs every performance I give, whether it is a grand festival stage or an intimate baithak.
For solo recitals, I structure the performance to take the audience through a progression of peshkar, kayda, rela, and gat, while providing historical context and rhythmic storytelling. I often include lehra support to maintain the melodic cycle.
In collaborative sangat (accompaniment), the dynamic is different. It becomes a conversation. I carefully sync with the main artist on Raags and Taals, ensuring the dayan is tuned exactly to the required scale. This preparation is critical, which is why I arrive 45 to 60 minutes early for sound checks to ensure the acoustics are balanced.
I perform across Mumbai and Pune, ranging from large-scale events to acoustic, microphone-free house concerts for up to 30 guests. If you are looking for a performer who values traditional craft and is comfortable in diverse settings, I would be happy to discuss your event's specific needs.
Onkar Todkar
I am Onkar. Tabla is my primary language, and I have spent years training in the Punjab Gharana style under Pt. Yogesh Samsi. My focus is on the music itself, whether it is an intense solo recital or a supportive dialogue with a fellow artist.
Looking for a different musical performance?
Search for specific instruments, event types, or musical styles.
More from Indian Classical Tabla Performance by Onkar Todkar